Community to gather at Ballina RSL Club to commemorate Anzac Day

ANZAC Day this year will mark two milestones in Australia’s military history with schools, volunteers and community groups attending commemorations at the Ballina RSL Club.

The service on Saturday, 25 April, will be led by the RSL sub-Branch and will carry added significance, marking 110 years since the Gallipoli Landings and 80 years since the end of the Second World War.

Across the state, more than 300 RSL sub-branches will host dawn services and marches, with Ballina’s commemorations expected to draw strong local support.

President of the Ballina RSL sub-Branch, Jamie Tanner, said Anzac Day remained a cornerstone of the community calendar and an opportunity for people of all ages to come together.

“Our passionate veteran volunteers are honoured to serve the Ballina community as the custodians of ANZAC Day commemorations,” he said.

“We welcome everyone, young and old, to commemorate in their own way and pay tribute to all who have served in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.

“Anzac Day is more than a ceremony; it’s a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in the name of our freedom.”

The day will begin with the traditional dawn service at 5.30am at Ballina RSL Memorial Park, with the public invited to the club for a $5 plated breakfast.

The commemorations will continue later in the morning, with the Anzac march along River Street at 10.30am.

In the lead up to Anzac Day, handmade poppy wreaths and banners have been displayed along River Street and supported by local businesses.

The project was launched by the Rotary Satellite Club of Ballina Lifestyle a few years ago to foster community connection and engagement throughout the month.